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1890

Jan 7 postmark: letter from Julia Bredt (Box 10A)

My dearest Alice,

  O! I am so glad you can come. Yes I will expect you on the train that
  gets here at 4, Friday 24th, rain or shine. On the 31st, the boys had
  promised an Assembly & Saturday a tea, so please remember you will not
  be home before that.

Well it is lucky I got your letter as I have not heard one before from
you before.

Be sure not to get La Grippe. Good bye; until later, I am in haste

  Julia.---

  You must excuse this but I am in such a frightful hurry

Jan 15: 149 Centre Street (Box 19A)

Mrs Bredt

Miss Bredt requests the pleasure of your company, January 24th, half
past 8.

RSVP Dancing. January the fifteenth

My dear Alice,

This is an extra letter, but I am going to ask you if you won’t come and
stay a week or so with me. Now please say yes. I want you to come on the
24th on the 12:20 train. I hope that it will be jolly. There is to be an
assembly; I hope and I expect to have a little dance on the 24th. The
night you girls come, I expect to have a friend from Bergen Pl, so you
will see each other all the way and I will tell Isadora to look out for
you. We are bound to have fun, for there is a card party Thursday and a
Tea and another card party. So be sure and come and bring two or three
party dresses or those that you can make “half in half.” Be sure and let
me know right away, tomorrow if you can. But please come Alice dear, as
I want you so much and Lent comes in February and there will be no more
fun, until about June. So you must come it is not far and I have set my
heart on you and Mamma will be dreadfully disappointed if you can not
come. As breakfast is ready, I must say good bye. In haste, Julia Bredt

Be sure and let me know as soon as possible.

Jan 27: letter from Mama:

  My dearest Child, I was so glad to find your note on the breakfast
  table this morning, and to know that you had arrived all right. You
  managed very well when Julia was not on hand, how curiously that did
  happen. I am so glad to know that you are not feeling badly, but you
  never seem to mind that away from home.

  Well, on Saturday I went to town, got the feather trimming, pocket
  comb, and stockings, of which there were only two pairs left, which
  were found after a long search, they said at first all were gone. I
  had a great struggle at Mary’s for lunch first to get my order taken,
  then to have it filled, then waiting for change. I got quite wild and
  could not get into the street until a quarter to two. I was afraid I
  would be late at the Opera – but as I climbed the first stairs, I
  heard the first sound of the Orchestra. It was a magnificent
  performance in every respect. Lill Lehmann superb in singing & acting
  both, she wore long yellow hair which changed her a good deal. There
  is no chorus in ‘Tristan,’ and no overture, but a long orchestral
  prelude before each act; the work is all done by the four principals
  Lehmann, Vogel, Fisher and Beck. I never heard such tremendous waves
  of sound, the orchestra seemed like one great instrument, the scenery
  very good, especially the moonlit garden of the love scene. The
  enormous audience shouted & stamped till worn out, the curtain was
  raised 3 times after the first act, and three times the singers came
  before the Curtain. Trudie & Edith were there. It was not over until 5
  minutes to six, all but four hours. I got the book for you.

  And now I must tell you of a dreadful thing on Saturday afternoon.
  Wallace MacFarlane went out to skate on Brady’s Pond. He did not
  return, and Sunday morning the pond was dragged, resulting in finding
  his body beneath the ice, frozen fast so that it had to be chopped
  out. He had taken one of the great dogs with him, and it was found
  drowned beside him, with his glove in its mouth. The dog had evidently
  tried to save Wallace by catching his arm, but the ice was so thin
  that he broke through. It was madness to go on such ice not half an
  inch thick, and Wallace was alone on the pond. The funeral took place
  this morning, the poor dog that was worth a thousand dollars was laid
  in the hall. They said that Mrs MacFarlane is quite insane with grief.
  No one can be surprised at that.

Take care of yourself my dearest Babe, and give my kind regards to Mrs
Bredt

From, Your Mama

February 3, 1890: St Johns Rectory, Clifton, SI

My dear Alice.

  Before I go out for a little airing, I must drop you a line as you
  will be coming home next thing. It was very sweet in you to write me,
  and you deserve better treatment than I am giving you in answering so
  late. But I am in such a rush nowadays that my pile of unanswered
  letters is something frightful.

  If you go out so much and keep up such fiendish hours, you will lose
  all your bloom and come home skin & bones, and that don’t pay.
  However, it is rather late in the day to offer any advice so I will
  shuteye.

  I wrote to your Aunt a refusal to her kind note as the Bachelors
  Cotillion comes on the very same night and I had promised Aunt Katie
  to be sure and come over for it. I suppose you are going to New
  Brunswick?. Are you coming home first? I hope your Aunt has forgiven
  my delay in answering her letter, I could not find out the date any
  sooner from Fred or Aunt Katie.

  Charlie B says he cannot go and has written your Aunt. I should rather
  like the spree of being with you & in a new place, but events will
  clash.

  I suppose you will be on hand for the opera this Saturday, will you
  not?

  Effie Emmons is going to have at homes these next two Saturdays, and I
  believe she is going to ask you to pour tea for her this Saturday. She
  asked me your address & I told her I would give it to her if she would
  come to the house, & I also told her that we had Opera every Saturday
  and that I should not be able to come to her teas, which of course
  made her feel very sad.

  “Tristan & Isolde” was simply magnif, & I did wish you could have seen
  it. Last Saturday you did not miss anything, as it was a repetition of
  the “Barber etc.” I did not go as I was sick & did not care enough
  about it to make the effort.

  The last dancing class was fine; I really had a real good time. Our
  last Friday was very successful; lots of men, queer to say. There is
  nothing going on down here this week, strange to relate. I shall be
  away having some clothes fixed up, I must have a pink dress for the
  last NB Assembly on the 13th & also something for Mrs Harper’s tea on
  the 15th, at which I receive; spending Sunday also, & returning in
  time on Monday to prepare for the Charity ball.

  You will be here for the next Dancing Class on the 14th; it is to be a
  St. Valentine’s party. If you will send me a valentine, I will return
  the compliment & then we will be sure of one a piece anyway.

  I went over to Governors Island to a hop last week & stayed all night
  with Mrs Allen, whose sister is a Miss de la Serna & knows Miss Bredt
  & yourself, she says, quite well. I liked her quite well & had a jolly
  good time over there.

  Now then, Alice, I must write Jack a few lines (he comes home for the
  Charity) and then go out, so farewell. Remember me to Miss Bredt and
  with lots of love for yourself. I remain as ever your loving friend.
  Trude Eccleston

Feb 24: short letter from L.L. Tribus that I did not transcribe – sorry!

Feb 24: My dear miss Austen

  You will find the group of friends and acquaintances enclosed all
  recognizable I hope but it certainly is not a success as far as the
  majority of the likenesses are concerned. you will observe that my
  manipulation of the candle was not without its effect, although it was
  not my intention to make myself the exact center of the field of the
  camera but to put you in that honorable position. The general movement
  of the crowd toward the north-west however threw those plans out. I
  suppose you know of the distress that has come upon Mrs. Bredt and her
  family. Poor Karl cannot hold out much longer, I would judge, and it
  is better now. Julia never seemed to realize the situation until last
  Tuesday when she heard he was dying. He is in Brooklyn you know.

  Would you like to have (to change the subject) an Indian tomahawk head
  for your collection? I found it among some old traps and it is quite a
  good specimen.

Very Sincerely yours

Geo Rodney Booth

410 Walnut St

Bethlehem PA

Feb. 24th 1890

March 3: letter from George ??? Letterolf? that I did not transcribe –
sorry!

March 1890 [my date based on the info in the letter]

Your file # Sept 26002

My dear Loll,

  I hasten to answer you note. My intention, weather permitting, is to
  go to Fort Washington to Miss Hopkin’s wedding next Tuesday and then
  go to you that afternoon and stay until Thursday. Just remembered this
  morning that it will be my “off week” but don’t believe that need
  interfere. May not feel quite so chipper, but then a chaperone can
  afford to be quiet.

  Make what arrangement you like about the spree and that your Mother
  approves. I am ready for anything and will promise to be very
  dignified.

  Can meet you anywhere in New York on Tuesday after 4 o’clock. Don’t
  worry about my sleeping accommodations. The parlor sofa or big chair
  will do for me. It will only be one night.

  What under the sun do you mean in your letter about strange tales from
  here? Do please tell me. We have not been doing anything bad and I
  can’t imagine what you have heard. It puzzles me more than enough.

  Did we do anything to horrify Bessie? I think I have told you all you
  want to know. Have just thought that there will not be time for you to
  write to Mr Gilman & get an answer and write me before I leave here
  Tuesday morning. So, in case you want me on that day I will be at
  Benedicts, corner of Courtland & Broadway at 4 o’clock. You can have
  your escort meet me and then in case you are not to be on hand until
  later, I can take care of myself until you appear.

  We will know what boat you come on & I could meet you.

  That would be very proper, would it not?

  Yours in haste, Nellie.

March 13: [Book 3] Florence Lodor

Thursday p.m. (very much p.m.)

My dear Miss Austen,

Will you kindly permit me to say “good-night’ in this fashion? As I was
looking for you, for a parting hand-shake, & there ? of your

…guests ?? ??antly undeterred & piloted to my carriage – as they were
waiting for ?? of ?? to sing? My opera ? “You know me,” I singed &
missed the

… then probable you ??? noticed I slipped away but I did - ??????

Florence W. Lodor

Ft Wadsworth

Staten Island

March 18: letter from George Rodney Booth (Box 19A)

Bethlehem, PA. My dear Miss Austen: Again the truth of the rule is
proved, that innocence will always vindicate itself in the end. In the
meanwhile I have been trying to assist her, but without having met with
very much success. I am very glad, therefore, on more accounts than one
to learn that the sinker has come to the surface. I was just about on
the point of sending you the hatchet, together with a letter simply
affirming that innocence which I was unable to prove to you, when your
letter arrived. I will send you the hatchet just the same, and can buy
it. Allow me to remark, however, in passing, that you made a long and
truly feminine leap to a conclusion, and from very small grounds; the
grounds being so far as I am able to learn, “a peculiar look.” When I
enquired after the welfare of the sinker in the morning, you left. And
that, too, in the face of your recollecting having put the sinker in
your trunk. Julia, too, smiled in my face and didn’t believe me when I
denied being the culprit. Isn’t it well for the country and the ends of
justice that the ladies do not sit as judges in our courts!

Believe me, very truly yours, George Rodney Booth

March 26: letter from Mama w TENNIS RACKET (Box 19A)

  Wednesday. My dearest Child I was so glad to get your note yesterday.
  Just think, I have not one bit of paper and have had to steal this,
  please excuse the liberty, I must get some in town tomorrow.

  I got your merino shirt after I left you, and also the blue silk one
  like your others. I think you want the three colors. The Captain
  thinks the Express charged too much for your trunk, he said I had
  better have told the man to charge it to me, for he may have squeezed
  a little for himself.

  No word for your Auntie for the money she sent Boodles, she sent the
  little old chair just as it was, she thought it too poor and broken to
  fix up. No notes for you yet, of course I will forward anything that
  comes. I sent your package to Bella. I heard that Pussy McKean was
  going to Europe, what next! Edith Wright, and Orline Alexander called
  this afternoon, they said it was “too bad” you were away, and left
  their cards.

  Today is your Grandpy’s birthday; the servants presented him with a
  bouquet, he said it was the first he had ever received.

  Give my regards to Mrs Strong, please, and take care of yourself my
  precious one. Colonel Lodes is trying to remain here by arranging with
  Colonel Langdon. Have you seen Van Dyke?

From your Mama

March 31: Bethlehem – letter from Julie Bredt (Box 19A)

My dearest Alice: It is so very dreadful to have to realize all that has
happened in these last two weeks, when the news first came from Mamma,
saying, Carl could not live, it seemed as if we could not bear it. Such
a sudden thing, and we thought that there must be some hope—But now that
Mamma has come home I feel as if I had something to be thankful for. As

for those two weeks it was perfectly dreadful here without her, and now
she has brought Miss Woolsey home, so it seems like a big load taken
off.

It was so lovely of you to go and see Mamma, I wrote you a letter
telling you to go a few days after we received the dreadful news, but I
have just torn it up. All the people here have been so kind and sweet, I
am sure I do not know what I would have done without them.

Yesterday I had a letter from Hattie White, she told me she had seen you
in New York. You asked me if I knew her; yes I do, and I like her real
well. She has one or two faults, “gushing” is one. Still, she has some
very good points really. She is going to Europe in April, I believe. All
the boys have been so nice coming every day to inquire. I have seen none
of them except the day before Carl died Gilbert Brodhead asked me please
to come down, so I did. But I do not feel like it now, although Mamma
says I must not stay as so.

I suppose the few flakes of snow reached you yesterday, didn’t they, and
it is so frightfully cold here now that I am sure we will have snow
tomorrow. With much love to your mamma & with lots to yourself form all
the family I am Dear Alice ever yours.

Julia Bredt

April 3: Thursday (EAA pencil April 1890)

Dear Alice, There are wild rumors in the air to the effect that the late
V.P. well ?? an ?? ticket with her own sweet, aromatic, aristocratic and
refined self, heading it as Pres.

This may be all nonsense but it is going all over so do come prepared
for a “scrap.” The worst one will be over Mrs. Irving I fear. Come early
and bring a tribe. With love yours –

Florie

April 4: Dear Alice, May I have the pleasure of your company to lunch on
Saturday April

twelfth at one o’clock. Very affectionately, Effie S. Emmons

April 25th:

My dear Miss Austen.

  The knowledge of your inability to find a suitable charity to invest
  my surplus capital in, fills me with a glad surprise and nameless joy,
  and I shall immediately take steps (not as clumsy as my Waltz steps)
  to locate in a spot so arcadian. Many thanks for your kindness.

  In future I shall always turn to you when carriages are needed. I felt
  too tired and ill to attend the last Literary, but as I had not agreed
  to discuss the subject appertaining unto the fiery untamed old
  clothesman at the one previous, your refrigerative sarcasm was thrown
  away.

  I am feeling much better this morning and hope when the weather
  becomes more settled to be quite well again. Once more thanking you
  for your kindness and expressing the hope that we may attend other
  similar affairs together, and with kind remembrance for your Mother,
  believe me

  Your sincere friend, Will V. Batchelder

May 6, 1890: 1220 North Calvert, Baltimore [from Julia Martin]

  My dear Alice –

  Though I have not much time, I am going to write to you because I know
  you will be glad to hear from me, & I hope to hear from you soon, &
  please do not get lonesome.

  I am truly sorry to have come off now & leave you – that isn’t said
  for effect at all, but pure truth. I went up to town on Tuesday in all
  that rain & saw the Sibleys. They said they hoped to see you before
  they return to Detroit, the latter part of next week.

  Why do you not go up some day & take the picture of us all to show
  them. 29 West 17th St is their address, & I know they will be
  delighted to see you.

  I left for here early yesterday morning & Mrs Barnett & Ruth met me at
  the station & I had a very warm reception from all.

  Sam Harper came right over to see me & has been here nearly all this
  morning. He seems so glad to see someone to whom he can talk…

NO MORE LETTER…

May 12, 1890: Fort Douglas, Salt Lake City, Utah

My dearest Alice:

  This is the fourth letter I have started to you and torn up on account
  of not being able to finish them. My letters seem to be fated and I
  shall be discouraged if I cannot finish this one in place.

  I had started a letter to you before yours arrived, so you see I had
  no intention of waiting for you. This is the first letter I have
  written to any of the girls, so I hope you feel properly complimented.
  I have grown so lazy since my arrival here that I do nothing but loaf.
  Edith has at last come to the conclusion that we are getting too
  demoralized, so she has taken to sewing; making herself white skirts,
  and I am going to try and keep some of my promises in the writing line
  as thanks to you & Mama, all my sewing is done for a year.

  The trunk you packed came in fine condition, not a thing was mussed or
  disturbed. It weighed so much that the soldiers were wondering what
  was in it. It was the heaviest trunk of all.

  I feel quite at home here now and when we have returned all the calls
  we owe, we can settle down and make some real good friends. It takes
  some time to get in the swing, especially as everyone knows each other
  so well.

  The post is beautifully situated right at the foot of the Snow
  Mountains – we have an exquisite view of the Valley & the City below,
  and also the Lake, which is like an ocean & as blue as a sapphire.

  The girls who are visiting here now I do not like very much, they are
  too free & easy for my style – decidedly fast; but I believe Mrs
  Johnston (who I have taken a great fancy to) expects her sister soon,
  and from all I can hear, she must be awfully nice & jolly. Then
  Captain Palmer’s daughter, who has been off visiting, has just
  returned with a very sweet girl, so they say. Consequently, I expect
  to fall in with some congenial spirits yet.

  So much for the girls; now for the men. I like all the officers so
  far; I could not very well help it as they have all been so polite to
  me. If I have any preference, it is for the older bachelors with
  perhaps one exception; Mr Gregg, who is the adjutant and reminds Edith
  & me so much of Mr Treat that we have to speak of it whenever we see
  him. He is not quite as tall, but fair & cheeky and a little bit
  spoiled like Mr T was. We have had quite a flirtation in a mild way.

  This morning I went for a little stroll with him out to see target
  practice. He wanted me to fire off one of the guns, but they kick so
  hard that I could not, & finally consented pulling the trigger if he
  held the gun & took aim. This necessitated my embracing him somewhat.
  Well, the thing went off and kicked so hard his shoulder hit my cheek
  & nearly upset me in the arms of another officer. I wish you could
  have seen the performance; it was great.

  They had a little informal hop here on Friday evening. I went with an
  officer called MacGlaucklin; very nice, he belongs to the 5th
  Artillery. He leaves with the rest of the 5th tomorrow for San
  Francisco – where we will meet again, later on.

  The band here plays splendidly; I never danced to better music, and
  the floor is fine. I had such a good dance. The Lancers were a perfect
  romp; quite came up to ours at home, only not quite as rough.

  They have these informal dances every Friday eve. The band plays
  selections between the dances & we all go home at eleven. Tomorrow
  night we are to have a big dance; refreshments and everything swell.
  It is given for the officers of the battery that have just come in
  from San Fran - & for the officers of the 5th who leave here Wed – now
  to join the rest of the 5th at Odgen on their way to San Francisco. We
  will of course see them later on, but the people here will not so feel
  very bad at looking at them.

  I have not met the new officers yet, they just arrived yesterday. It
  is quite exciting welcoming the new battery in & seeing the old go
  away. The band plays & it is really quite sad. There is a court
  martial going on now I can see all the officers going to the court
  room in full dress.

  I go up every morning to Guard Mount, the band always plays such
  lovely tunes; then we always all go to dress parade at seven, it is
  quite a sight. There are so many batteries here and so many officers,
  it reminds me very much of West Point. It took me some time to get
  used to the white stripes & plumes but now I think it much prettier
  with the dark blue uniforms, then the red.

  I am gradually waking them up to tennis. The court was in a dreadful
  condition, so I woke the Colonel up to the fact that I was very
  anxious to play; so he has had a lot of soldiers fixing it up in fine
  style, putting in clay & pounding it down hard after watering it
  carefully. So that now we are all tennis crazy, and we are going to
  begin operations tomorrow. I have been challenged by all the officers,
  so mean to have some fun and plenty of exercise to keep from getting
  too enormous.

  I was rather disappointed in the City. It looks like a country town to
  me. The electric wires run all over your head everywhere and spoil the
  looks of the splendid wide streets. Of course, these wires are for the
  electric cars that come whizzing around the corners before you can
  have time to think.

  The stores are quite good but the whole place looks country to me. Of
  course, some of the residences are lovely. The Mormon houses of course
  have intense interest for Edith & me, we just listen to all the yarns
  open mouthed. The other day I came across some very interesting Mormon
  pictures & Edith & I, knowing that you would be as interested as we
  are over these disgusting Mormons, thought you might appreciate this
  work of art which I sent by the same mail as this letter. Mama has one
  too, so you can compare notes if it is disgusting it is time.

  Now the Mormon men only dare to live with one wife, the first, or they
  are put in the penitentiary, so it is not as interesting as it was
  years ago. I am to meet one of the Youngs tomorrow evening, and in
  fact all the nice men in town have been invited (not Mormons except Mr
  Young) They do not care to mix with the Gentiles, I believe. Mrs Blunt
  knows some lovely Mormon ladies she says, so I shall meet them before
  I leave. I have so many things to tell you that I cannot write them
  all, tell Mama she must read you her letters and then you can hear
  everything.

  I went to the Lake with “the gang” as they call themselves on Saturday
  and enjoyed it immensely. It takes about two hours to go from here on
  the train. The bathing is simply fine they say; when it gets a little
  warmer, we are all going in. The salt is so thick that one can’t sink
  it is impossible to swim any way but dog fashion & floating is what
  everyone has to do as you can’t sit on the bottom.

  I ate four bags of popcorn that day and a ham sandwich large enough to
  feed a Mormon family. Col Blunt has the most beautiful garden I have
  ever seen. The children play in it all day long. They are so brown and
  well, and they send their love to you. I will not let them forget any
  of you if I can help it. Edith has found a little girl to help her
  watch them in the daytime, but she is very much tied down and is nurse
  most of the time.

  We are going to dress the hop room this afternoon, so I expect I shall
  be carried off in a minute. We have had such cold rainy weather since
  Friday that I don’t know when it will be warm enough to leave off our
  coats. Mrs B says when it comes warm it will stay so and that they are
  only too glad to have a little rain as it does not rain all summer
  here nothing but sunshine & dust. We saw it snowing up in the
  Mountains above us yesterday. We are going to walk up some of the
  canyons soon and have a snow fight.

  Alice, I enjoyed your letter so much do write me some more just like
  it. Gossip all you like for you know I take it all as it is meant and
  can just see before my eyes the things you describe. Tell Sam the
  crushed morsel of rose is pressed in my bible, and your forget-me-not
  shall be put in even a safer place.

  You are a very good girl to cheer my mother up as you do. She speaks
  of it all the time. You don’t know how much I appreciate it Alice, I
  felt sure when you said you would do it that I could count on you, for
  certain. Now I must stop this sermon and get ready to go out.

  Give my love to Julia and tell her not to try to comfort my friends
  for me. It is much better to let them forget me in a measure than to
  keep my memory so green all the time. Give lots of love to Jule &
  George and in fact all my friends when you see them and write soon
  again.

  Edith sends lots of love & says she cannot write until she gets to Cal
  – With piles of love for your own dear self I am your loving friend.
  Trudie Eccleston

I cannot write to anyone first – haven’t got the time – my friends must
good & write

first.

June 15: letter from mama (Box 19A) Sunday

  It was very kind of you my dearest, to write me so soon. I am always
  glad to know that you have arrived safely. Katie Joyce stayed quite
  late and left quite a lot of hemming which I shall be sure to have
  ready for her next visit.

  In the afternoon Gregory came with the banjo case for which I paid
  three dollars and a half. It has been blacked, for he said you did not
  like the light color. He seemed very sorry you had gone without the
  case, as he thought you wanted to take the banjo in it. I did not tell
  him you had left it; fancy it in the trunk. In the evening, (Friday)
  Charlie Barton called, Katie told him you had gone to New Brunswick.
  Just as I am writing, 8 1/2 PM Clarence has turned up, he asked where
  you had gone, and how long you would stay.

  I sent to inquire after Effie that morning, the answer was that she
  was better. I fancy she will pull through better than they thought at
  first.

  The Park Avenue people were plainly visible as they passed they waved
  till out of sight. Tomorrow I expect Potts, I am glad to get through
  with her..

When you are not here, it is such a nuisance for you.

  I hope your dresses came and pretty well, for it was very tight
  packing. You are certainly a natural born traveler. I do not see how
  you got ready so well as you did. Your Auntie is going to write to you
  and hopes to have some news. Nothing has come from the post office as
  yet. It has rained very hard here, on Friday night, the most
  tremendous thunder, shaking the house.

Take care of yourself my precious one,

From your Mama

June 17, 1890: Fort Douglas

  My dearest Alice. I am really going to try and write you a few pages
  this afternoon and do hope that no one will come and disturb me. It
  seems to be perfectly impossible to write letters here or do anything
  but loaf and have a lazy good-for-nothing kind of a time. I have been
  the whole morning trying to darn a hole in my stockings.

  First, some of the girls came into the garden where I am sitting and
  had a gossip which ended in two of the officers joining us, which
  finally led to our all climbing a Cherry Tree and stuffing ourselves
  until we were all sick. I know I never want another one.

  So, the time just flies, and I do not know where it goes to; the end
  of the week is here before I realized it is Monday.

  Our visit is fast coming to an end, I am sorry to say. I think we will
  leave here about the 20th of July. We would like to spend the summer
  here, but Edith is beginning to be a little anxious to get settled and
  feel she has a home and more and anyway, I think for a first visit to
  her mother-in-law, she has done pretty well.

  We are having a tremendous windstorm today. And as it is too hot to
  sit in the house I am in the garden as usual, writing in a hurricane.
  So, if the writing of this letter is crazy you must forgive me. I am
  fine friends with everyone now and feel as if I belonged here. We have
  great times dropping into people’s houses in the evening and
  surprising them by staying on their piazzas or playing on their
  pianos, or suggesting a game of cards – anything, in fact, to make
  things lively. We get tired of our own houses.

  This eve we are all going up to the hop room to raise Cain. One of the
  girls (Mrs Johnston’s sister) knows a whole lot of new dances and she
  is to teach us all how to dance them. We will also have the “song &
  dance” & “Razel dazel” and end up with a ballet in which Mr Gregg
  always excels as the highest kicker.

  The officers are talking of getting up some minstrels before I leave
  in which we girls are all to take part, blacking up and dressing in
  all the colors of the rainbow. I think it will be jolly good fun,
  myself. We may also give “Jacobi,” and then end up with a dance. This
  is to be if the weather remains as cool as it is now, it would be too
  hot work in warm weather. I have not been able to wear a white dress
  yet, such constant wear of thick clothes is dreadful; I shall have to
  renew my trousseau in Cal – or go naked.

  The Lake here is an unending source of amusement to me. I go whenever
  I can & so does Edith, we feel so fine when we come out, it is so
  exhilarating, and we can float like a cork without any effort on your
  part.

  There is a club in town composed of the nicest people only, who have a
  special train out to the Lake every Monday evening. (The post people
  are always included.) they take a bath then have something to eat (if
  they choose) then dance in the pavilion on the Lake to lovely music
  until about eleven o’clock when the train returns to town. We have
  been every time, went last night & had such a jolly time.

  I drove back with Dr Edie in his buggy, deserting the crowd in the
  ambulance much to Mr Gregg’s disgust; his (Dr E’s) horse just tore all
  the way home until I thought I should be killed.

  I am having two very flourishing flirtations with Dr. Edie & Mr Gregg.
  I like the latter best, but I don’t let on I do. Mr G is much younger
  & handsomer by far. The Dr. is an old hand at flirtation so is more
  exciting, but I have wisely decided to let up a little now as things
  are getting too hot for me.

  Mr G gets mad whenever I am with the Dr & vice-versa & this making up
  business gets to be too tiresome after a while.

  One of the men in town has promised to take me to his silver mine on
  Thursday & I am to invite whoever I please to go along, so I have made
  up a party of about ten.

  We spend the day there starting from here at an abominable hour in the
  morning & getting back at five. We are to have our dinner at the
  Miner’s camp and rough it all we can. They say the men drop you down
  into a big black hole & that it almost scares you to death; well, it
  will be a new sensation, so I don’t care.

  Now Alice, I must quit this nonsense & after asking a few questions
  say farewell for the present.

  Is it true that Effie Emmons is to be married right away? And how does
  Mrs M teach my Staten Island class? Are you going away with Julia? And
  how is the tennis club coming on?

  Thanks so much for the picture of the Sibley girls, I do wish I was in
  it. Give my love to Miss Jessup when you see her & all the girls
  especially Julia & Julie. Tell Julia that I had a long letter from
  Fraulein written in German writing. I just handed it over to Mary our
  cook & she read it to me, it consisted of eight pages with nothing in
  them to speak of.

  Albert is going into the photograph business; he has all his things &
  one of the officers here is a crank on the subject & has a dark room
  so I shall have some groups of the people here to show you when I come
  home.

  The children were delighted with the books you sent & send their love
  to you. Edith says “so do I.” They are as well and brown as can be. I
  am a sight – I am so brown. Give my love to your Mother & write soon.
  With lots of love I remain

Lovingly Trude Ecc--

June 26: letter from Maria Bredt (Box 19A) black-lined letter

  My dear Alice, You will be surprised when I tell you we are all
  spending a few weeks away from home together, this is an event to
  chronicle as I very seldom go away from household cares but, as
  Ernestine did not seem very well, we are trying a little sea-watching
  & are staying near Port Jefferson, Long Island, for the summer
  vacation.

  I wonder what you are doing and planning this summer? I am feeling
  stronger and better than when you last saw me, and have thought many
  times of your kindness in taking such a long trip to come and see me
  that last sad [?] time we met in Brooklyn. We left Bethlehem before
  the festive exercises that mark the closing of the University for the
  summer term, but, as Julia did not feel disposed to attend the Hop!
  Reception & tennis teas that are crowded into that one week, it was
  just what she wanted to do. Next June if all is well I hope we shall
  have a jolly party to swell the numbers, and you dear Alice amongst
  them.

  Arthur is already looking forward to the time. You have interested him
  so much in your talks about photography.

  We have not bought any camera with us and I am just as well..pleased
  as such an instrument is not improved by being in the hans of too many
  amateurs.

  You mustn’t forget how pleased I shall be to hear from you as many
  times as you like to write. Remember us very kindly to your Mama &
  Grandpa & with united love.

Very sincerely yours, Maria Bredt.

Echo. Crystal Suffolk Co., Brook. Long Island

June 28: letter from Bessie (Box 19A) 223 Broadway, Norwich, Connecticut

  My dear Alice: My promise that I would write you soon has not been
  forgotten. I only waited to tell you about the race. You know, of
  course, that Yale was victorious for that news travels only too fast.
  How I wish you could have been of our party! We had simply the best
  possible view of the whole thing and how I enjoyed it!! We did not go
  on the yacht after all, as the Slaters were off on a short cruise.
  They did come up to the race yesterday, and the “Sagamore” quite cut
  the other yachts out, but we did not wish ourselves on board. We went
  down to New London on the boat, and from there, on the “observation
  train” followed the crews, along the shore, from start to finish. The
  road runs right along the river, so nothing could be better arranged.
  The observation train is simply composed of a lot of open
  freight-cars, with seats arranged in tiers, as they are at a circus,
  so you face the water. They were 32 cars in our train I believe, and
  it was the prettiest sight to look back as we rounded a curve and see
  all the flags waving and hear the boys shouting. We were right in with
  most of the college fellows, and such enthusiasm.

  Harvard was not at all well represented on the train, but several of
  our party wore her colors. Mr Saunders, a graduate in ’84 sat next to
  me. I wore his ribbon and was presented with a Harvard flag when he
  left us. It shall adorn my wall when I return to New Brunswick, as a
  souvenir of one of the jolliest events I have ever attended.

  The crews started right in front of our car, so near, we could hear
  the orders distinctly. At first Harvard was ahead, and the Yale men
  looked almost as blue as their flags. Then Yale braced up, and passed,
  but Harvard soon went ahead again. Then there was excitement. But it
  soon became evident that Harvard was losing, and after that, Yale
  gained steadily. It was a magnificent race, without a hitch anywhere.

  I ran against Mr Kelsey as we left the train also met Miss Wiley who
  lived with Miss Dayton for a time, but the Scudder men not visible. We
  came up from New London on the boat, reaching home about ten. The sail
  up was delightful and the moonlight on the water something perfect.
  Wish you could have seen the harbor as we went down in the afternoon;
  there were about twenty steam-yachts besides those sloop-rigged, all
  dressed, and as the crews came down the noise from the guns and
  whistles was almost deafening. I longed for a camera many times. Mr
  Fred Janssen was on the boat and in our car. He and his sisters visit
  a Mrs Briscoe here.

  Norwich people are simply charming; they are so attentive we hardly
  have breathing space. They began to call on Monday night; Miss Peck
  was the first, and on Tuesday quite a number were here. I was not able
  to see them for I had a wretched night Monday, scarcely slept at all,
  and did not get up till noon.

  My journey was not unalloyed bliss, but I got through better than I
  feared. The MaCaulays sent me to the station in their brougham
  [bru-um], and Bessie met me at Norwich. Tues. afternoon Miss Coggswell
  took Bessie and me on a lovely drive about Norwich. We were both
  wrecks from the same cause, but the airing braced me up.

  At eight we retired, thereby missing two calls, but one of them came
  again next evening.

  Wednesday PM, I went to an afternoon tea, where we played some
  wonderful games, and I won a prize.

  Wed. morning Miss Peck took us on a long drive, with the Slaters’
  horses and wagonette, and yesterday morning another of Bessie’s
  friends took Miss Peck and ourselves. We were gone all the morning,
  and I was treated to some of the most beautiful views. Norwich is
  surrounded by hills, and the scenery is grand.

  This PM we have a picnic in prospect, Tuesday another, and Wednesday
  night Miss Peck gives me a tea. Don’t you think I shall be spoiled? I
  shall leave here on the 7th probably, after which my address will be
  Care Mrs JA Harwood, Littleton, Mass.

  You have my Norwich address at the head of this letter and remember
  you promised to write soon. With much love, yours, Elisabeth.

July 15: Julie Bredt in Clifton (?)(letter index) (Box 19A)

Dearest Alice, I have just a few minutes to spare before going to the
train to answer your letter – you were very jolly to write me so soon &
I think you must be having a fine time. I only had one more bath after
you left and that was fine but I have been too busy to go in again. My
skirts have nearly driven me crazy – this is only a note to give you my
address. Blue Mt Lake Prospect House. Adirondacks. All letters will be
forwarded from Tue. When I get to Blue Mt I will write again.

Lovingly yours in a tearing hurry - Julie

July 18: 272 Hamilton St.

Dear Alice: A very sweet reminder of you in the shape of those excellent
pictures came to me two days since; I cannot thank you enough for them;
all think them very good.

Their arrival was timely – I have been sitting alone these days, waiting
for the sad news that came yesterday morning of my brother’s death in
the ??

So you see dear Alice your kind act was doubly a blessing! Bessie will
be so glad to see the pictures when she comes home, I hope the week
after next – I have just read a letter from her since writing the last
sentence. She is at Littleton Massachusetts, C/o Col J.A. Harwood –

It seems as if she had been away all summer. I have not told her I have
two sick servents – “under the weather” literally fortunately not in
bed. – with kindest regards to your mother and many thanks again for the
pictures, I am most affy. Yours

H.A.H. Strong.

Last night’s Home News tells of the death of Bessie Howard’s father.
Poor girl! I think you know her?

July 21: Littleton (Box 19A) letter from Bessie Strong

  My dear Alice: Your letter reached me in Norwich; many thanks for such
  a prompt response to my epistle. Wish I could believe that you would
  keep it up, but frequent back slidings on your part have made me
  skeptical. However, I am thankful for this brave endeavor and shall
  watch eagerly for your next.

  I do not know where this will find you; but if you are away from the
  Island, it will probably be forwarded to you.

  My visit in Norwich ended July 8th, and I really hated to go away.
  Everyone was so kind and almost wore me out with picnics, teas,
  drives, etc. One day we lunched at Mrs Slaters, went home about three
  to rest a little then out to tea at six. Another day we were invited
  to drive from 5 to 7, came home to a hurried tea, and then were off to
  a violin recital in the evening. So it was something almost every day,
  and often two or three things.

  One afternoon five of us went down the river in boats, took our tea,
  and did not get back to the house till eleven. The girls were Bessie
  Palmer, May Peck and myself, and the men Mr Johnson and Dr Tingley.
  The Doctor rowed me down, and proved to be a very pleasant fellow. He
  called a few evenings after that about quarter of nine. We were very
  tired so had gone upstairs early, and Bessie was in bed: I had just
  turned out the gas. Mrs Palmer would not excuse us so as it was so
  early, so we were dressed and downstairs in less than ten minutes. We
  should have missed it by not seeing him, for he asked us to go to
  church with him Sunday PM, to hear the choir-boys, and on Sunday he
  invited us to row the next afternoon, up to the falls. Bessie and the
  Dr. were anxious I should see that bit of nature, and it was lovely. I
  did so wish for my camera.

  Began my visit in Boston on that dreadful Tuesday, the 8th. But it
  soon cooled off and was very comfortable. Elizabeth (Lillie) and I
  paid a flying visit to Plymouth , stayed overnight with a cousin and
  returned next afternoon.

  Then I ran up (figuratively speaking) to Exeter and spent a night with
  Aunt Mary. I was so unfortunate as to be travelling on every one of
  those hot days.

  Came up here last wed and shall stay probably till the 30th. Had hoped
  Lillie could be with me in Littleton part of the time but she had to
  give it up at last.

  You would groan at the hours we keep, for we breakfast at 6:30 every
  morning, except Sunday. I do not mid it at all and have only had one
  nap since I came. That was yesterday and my “grandmother” was the
  cause. I had to miss a long drive because of her; had three drives on
  Saturday, however, and shall probably go to the depot for Herbert this
  PM. They have a gentle horse which I am allowed to drive.

  The children are simply irresistible; I wish you could see them.
  Joseph is growing rather large, but the two little girls, and Richard
  are the dearest things, and the baby very cunning. Richard is such a
  ??, not yet four years old but sharp as can be and a thorough boy. He
  has been haying ever since I came. Has his own pitchfork and goes off
  with the men.

  But I must write to Bessie Palmer this morning, so farewell. I hope
  you are having a good time wherever you are. Am awfully sorry Campbell
  and Huntington were beaten. Watched the papers for news of the
  tournament. Write soon again.

With love, as ever yours, Elisabeth B.S.

Aug 20: letter from Mama: (Box 19A) Staten Island to Bennington, VT dark
envelope w white ink.

I was much pleased with your last letter, my sweet Lollie, the
handwriting was so very good and the content so interesting. I am very
glad you went to Albany as you said in the letter to your Auntie, see
all you possibly can. It is too dreadful about poor Miss Wilcox. All I
know is that her illness was very short the last time I saw her was when
she mistook you for Trudie on the boat.

Doctor & Mrs Castleton have gone to Lake Mahopac for the rest of the
season in spite of the doctors saying he should not leave this summer.
Have you heard anything about Trudie?

Mr. Mills called here last Friday afternoon, your Grandpy was sitting on
the Piazza and told him you were away. He expressed great admiration of
the view, saying he had only been here at night. He sailed for Europe
the next day, to be away until the fall.

I see by the paper that Mr Bobbitt is ordered to West Point, and James B
Townsend’s wife has had twins at Newport.

It has been dreadfully hot and damp here, yesterday torrents of rain, at
12 o’clock the chimes rang out for Willis and Miss Cassell’s wedding. I
never heard them ring so long. A card came from Nellie to your Auntie
yesterday, saying there was a chance of a lunch at the Lawyer’s Club, on
the 27th, to go with a person, no name given, but I suppose H. Gilman,
as the ‘person’ was about going to Europe. She wanted to know if you
would be home by that time.

Your Auntie answered that we did not know when you intended to return.
Do you think Nellie can have reminded H.G. of his promise? I enclose a
letter from Mrs V.R. that came yesterday. I am afraid she and Emie are
getting to be fanatics on religious subjects. The photo of Mr Sargent
she speaks of is very good, and recalls him perfectly. I wish you would
tell me the smallest things about yourself. Do you find your shirts
useful? That hard water is hateful I remember that kind in Paris, full
of lime. Alice Wheelock sails today. Aunt Sarah Ann is travelling by
carriage in Wales, some day you must see all this, my dearest. Your Mama

My dear Alice, [Book 2] Sept 5, 1890 postmark

Here I am home again after the most perfect summer that I have ever
spent. Everything at home is upside down. As you know, a robber got into
the house while we were at Echo and although he went through every
single thing, did not take very much. I left $20 here so if I came home
dead broken I would have a slight pocket book at home, he grasped it
though the little brat, and went off with it, (slightly better ink.) He
took a watch and some jewelry & spoons that is about all.

I came home about a week sooner than the rest of the family to see how
bad things really were and then I went up to Muncy to see a friend of
mine & stayed over two weeks. I had a simply fine time. Met an awfully
jolly bachelor who gave a steam launch party, and when in the middle of
the Susquehanna, a dreadful storm came up making it highly exciting. We
got home about Twelve & O. the sport. The coach that came to meet us
would only hold about ten so the girls all got in & the men got on the
back it was such fun. Then we all went to Highland Lake a summer resort
& to Williamsport and did everything we could do. The girls are so nice;
I am sure you would like them they are the Muncy crowd you have heard me
speak of. This Margaret was the one that was coming when you were here,
only she had La Grippe.

I expect to have a House Party next June, so don’t make any engagement,
you’ll meet her there. It is very quiet here now everyone is away all
the girls are going away this winter. But as I have joy I do not mind as
will make time fly. The girls want me to come up to Muncy in December
for the first snow & the end of this month I expect to go to New York
for a few days & am going to see Lella & Isa, so I will be away I guess
for quite some time.

How are you Alice? Are you home or still away. Tell me all about
yourself and write soon for I have not heard from you for all age. What
are you acting like you said you intended to be a good corresponder this
winter. Give my love to your Mamma. I wish you could see the boys they
do look so well & brown, I hardly know them. Mamma looks very well. She
met Mr G Ives & he said he had never seen her look so well & then he
told her how sick his wife was, etc. etc. Is it not too bad G. Boothe is
still away? He is a real true lawyer now, just think? He’s taking a
vacation & he always goes down to see some cousins of his in the fall.
E. Greene has graduated & won’t be back to see dear old Beth until June,
that is the time all the old graduates come back, & we are going to have
a high old time. If nothing happens. Minor Dodson has a new buckboard
and George Tocht, told me last night he is going to buy a saddle horse.
I am so happy for he is going to let me ride it & I have a saddle so I
expect to have a good time riding. We are going out Saturday evening.

College begins Wednesday & so the “Freshies” are beginning to ?? here
now we have to make new friends & some of the new boys are real cute &
cunning. Alice this pen & ink are fearful but I know you will excuse it
all this is my first letter. And if you do not answer in a day or so I
will be mad for keeps. – The Psi Mus have the nicest new man, O! by the
way how is Jessup? Tell me all about yourself. I am so anxious to take
photos. Have you taken many lately? This summer all the people took so
many & grew quite interested. Now answer soon. Yours as ever

Julia Frederique Bredt

149 South Centre Street

Bethlehem, PA

How is Emily Scott that was & where is she?

This India Ink is worse than the other. Just think G Boothe has just
come home the girls said he looks splendidly he has a mustache.

Sept 6, 1890: 23 Elk Street

Albany Sept 6th

My dear Alice,

  There is no sleep in me, so I have gotten up, one AM to have a talk
  with you on paper.

  Oh, dear how I wish you were here tonight, however it is better for
  you you are not, for it wouldn’t be “a quarter past three” that you
  would get off. I cannot begin to tell you how lonesome I have been
  without you, without hide & seek or any of the good things of
  “Bennington hill”.

  I am so glad you received your trunk. Mine did not come that night or
  the next day. I took myself to the station & there found it with two
  checks on it so had no trouble in getting it. The express man made me
  tell him what was in the top tray & for a moment I would not tell of
  anything but my hat. I had to open it & what do you think was the
  first thing my eyes lighted upon – why the much lamented & longed for
  stocking with the yellow garter around it, just as I had taken it off.
  I felt like putting it right on then & there but refrained myself even
  from a look of recognition.

I was feeling down in the dumps, when untold joy, who should appear but
Mrs. Snively. Wednesday morning we had a great time all the morning on a
regular tu?

  Mrs S looked lovely. She had on that pink & red gingham & a new hat &
  I tell you, I was proud of her. She praised you up to the “seven
  heavens.” I will refrain from telling you as I am afraid you would get
  too conceited. She said she wanted you & me to visit her this Winter
  if possible. It seems that heretofore Mr. Snively has objected to
  visitors but has changed his mind. As I will not be able to accept
  this invite, Mrs S said she would try & have you with her while I am
  at Mrs Cooper’s – I hope she will for we would have lots of fun.

  Edith, if you please, is not going until Saturday (that’s today, is it
  not) & Mrs S is furious with her. Mrs Cooper & Snively were talking
  about you the other day before her & Mrs S said she was so mad because
  they did not say much about me. So when she went home, she told Mrs
  Snively she thought Julia Martin far superior to Alice.

  I met my “Uncle Jim” when downtown with Mrs S. He did not look at all
  well as he has not cut his whiskers but let them grow all summer.
  However, I was glad to see him & gave him your love.

  It was not hard to understand why Mrs S had only spent the day before
  with Miss Church & not the night but staying all alone at her
  Mother’s. She thought I did not see through it, but you know sometimes
  I seem more blind than I really am.

  We are not going to Bennington after all (I may, however, go for the
  day with Walter Robinson.) That last bit of news if for you, but for
  no one else. He his mother & sister arrived on Saturday & I have been
  spending the day there & having a great time. He isn’t half as good
  looking as he was but will do in a crowd.

  I am cutting Kate Walsh all out. You remember Papa’s talking of Mr
  Durant, who met Kate at Troy the day she went to NY. Well, he has a
  pair of lovely horses & Friday afternoon he came & took her for a
  beautiful drive & is coming again this afternoon. He drives in an
  awfully swell four wheeled Dog-cart & as he is not half bad himself I
  have a fine time. How is that?

  I will have to look out for myself now & mind my “P’s & Q’s” as Miss
  Dexter came home today. I suppose she will be telling all sorts of
  tales about me. She brought my umbrella home, so after study tomorrow
  I suppose I shall have to call on her.

You were ever so good to write me such a long newsy letter. I was so
shocked to

  hear of Mr DeKay’s death & until you wrote I could not imagine what
  was the matter with him. I was also shocked to hear of Miss Allen’s
  death. I did not know her well but used to see her at school now &
  then & it seemed such an awful thing for so young a girl to meet her
  death so soon after her return.

  It is fine that the pictures have turned out so well. I am dying to
  see the “Simpleton Family” & the ballet.

  You know Mrs King looks to me as if she would feel everything too
  hard. I am sure I wish she had let up on that picture & I know Papa is
  disappointed.

  I have had a very bad cold, but it is better now although I still
  croke at a great rate and my nose has to be attended to every five
  minutes. I was weighed the other day & have gained 1/2 pound.

  I hope the cat’s tail is better. I am not a bit sleepy yet but have
  come to an end of paper & news so will close. Write to me soon again &
  give my love to all at home keeping a big share for yourself ever

Affectionately

Julia T. Martin

  Seems to me my severe talk to a certain person, did her much good. To
  tell the truth, I think she was & is awfully ashamed of herself & I am
  glad she is.

Sept 14, 1890: letter from Mrs Snively

Bennington, Vermont

My dear Alice -

  Thank you so much for the charming photographs which reached me safely
  Friday afternoon.

  They are certainly lovely & I cannot tell you how much pleasure they
  have given me. The picture of Laddie & myself the very best we have
  ever had taken. I am very much pleased with Mother’s – it is a great
  thing to have her just as I see her every day – I really don’t
  understand how they all could have turned out so well.

  Miss Sanford & I have enjoyed the Simpkins family & our dance greatly
  – the “Sleep babies sleep” is fine – I can’t tell you how I miss you
  girls, I have been as blue as possible ever since you left – I am
  going to write you later & see if you can’t come up in the Winter to
  visit me.

With re?? thanks, Believe me very lovingly yours.

Lisy M.C. Snively--

September 15, 1890: Fishkill on Hudson.

My dear Lola –

  Your two sets of photos have arrived safely, just the proofs – for
  which thank you for sending – your little jem does wonderful work. And
  I feel reproached for not having written to thank for, as well as to a
  ?? there. But I am always in arears in the letter line, and it was not
  want of appreciation I do assure you that kept me from writing, and
  now the beautiful finished photos have come…

  Mother & I both think the parlor ones particularly clear and good, and
  I am very glad to have such beautiful specimens of your work, to send
  to Mr Bartlett for whom they are intended. The little ones are just as
  charming as they can be – poney? Immortalizes? & one of the prettiest
  fieatures of this place. The arch – so well done. Thank you for
  sending an extra one of the woodpile group. One of the pleasant
  remembrances of pleasant day are these dear little reproducers – and I
  am ????? Lola you have given no ordinary amount of pleasure in your
  life – by your excellent work in a most valuable…art. I hope you have
  had a very pleasant summer and that you have been able to get many
  pretty views.

  Mother & I enjoyed our Northfield days very very much. She has not
  been well since her return so that it has prevented our going to Ira
  Bright, but is feeling much better now.

  What rainy weather we are having. There seems to be no end to the damp
  – dark weather. Hot sunny days must come sometime. Mother sends much
  love to your mother and yourself, not forgetting your Aunt.

Hoping you are all well. I am ever very affectionately your cousin.

E.D. VanRensselaer

  I do not think I have conveyed mother thanks dear Lolla, & her
  appreciation of the photos which was very great.

September 17, 1890: 23 Elk Street, Albany Sept 17/90

  My dear Alice –

  What is more pleasant when visiting than to have it pour steadily,
  without ceasing, for ten days one after the other, & with no prospects
  of its ever clearing.

  In spite of it all, I have had a most delightful visit & am sorry it
  must so soon come to an end.

  I may have company down on Saturday. If so, you will see on Sunday my
  little French dandy. And see with your own eyes the long heard of
  Doctor. He has been spending the morning here & we have been having a
  great time. Indeed, my heart is quite cracked in two places the ride
  side with Herr Docteur, the other with Mr Durant.

  The latter spent the evening here & when it clears off, I am to have
  another drive. I think of the two he would be the best investment, as
  he has horses & money, etc.

  Well, I think you have had enough of above trash; it must be the rain
  makes me sentimental.

  Woe be, I have not been to see my “Idol” as you call her. It all fell
  through, so I have to content myself with looking at her photograph,
  for which I am greatly obliged to you. It is not bad, neither is it
  Mrs S at her best. Mrs Cooper’s is very good, I think. I suppose Mrs S
  has written thanking you for the pictures, & I am overcome with
  jealousy. She is a trump & no doubt about it. As I cannot get a letter
  from her, I have been to Mrs Cooper’s & gotten a hat box of hers &
  shall keep it always with most tender care & seeing it has belonged to
  her, I know it will preserve my hat from harm.

  I want to see the other photos so much & think I will make a tour to
  your house Sunday afternoon.

  Miss Dexter is at home. I called on her last week & she gave me the
  latest Bennington news. Mrs Robinson & daughter had left for
  Williamstown, in fact, all had gone away except the Leanard & the deaf
  lady. Steve & his brother had gone to school & Mrs Longley was in a
  doleful frame of mind.

I haven’t heard from Edith yet. Strange is it not?? Perhaps you have
fared better.

  Uncle Jim has not been to see me, that is the reason I feel so cast
  down. It always affects me, as you well know if I don’t have a man at
  my heels all the time.

  Well, really, I haven’t any news at all, & if I have forgotten any,
  will save all up in my mind until Sunday. Let’s go over next week to
  see Miss Hoyt.

Give my love to all at your house & ever with much for yourself believe
me

Lovingly, Julia T Martin

Tear, burn or swallow this trash.

Undated [Book 2] – could be here as Bredt is coming to Rosebank:

[Book 2] Octoberish… 1890

My dearest Alice – Its all OK for Friday. I’ll take the half past two
but from New York. O! I am so glad I can come. We have had two of the
cutest girls in town from Germantown & such fun as we have had. They
came for the ball. Emily Rathburn gave a tea, the Chapmans gave a small
dance & last night we went to Nazareth & had a Champagne supper such
fun! Tonight the girls are to stay all night with me tomorrow. Nan has
asked us all in & Sat Polly is going to have a dance! & so on such is
life.

I had a long talk with George & he wanted me to give you his bestest &
he said he would look to come down if you would ask him poor beast. I
told him I knew you would not mind but he has it pretty badly really “he
told me loved you but darn it he lied.” – Now I won’t write more as I’ll
see you so soon be sure & meet me. Must I get out at Rosebank.

Julie

October 23: letter w first page scanned twice…

Oct 26:

The Cottage – Oct 26th

My dear Alice, (Munn)

  It was very pleasant to get your letter and find that your visit ??
  terminated so pleasantly by finding all things going on well at home.
  We enjoyed your visit so much that it was nice to know you had enjoyed
  it also. I think this pleasant intercourse between us is all
  inheritance is always ?? between your dear mother & ourselves – it was
  a long life friendship begun at a very early age and of fond remember
  to have had…

  …One thing happens that causes the last coolness between us … I used
  to say ?? after years when we met; it was as if we had parted the day
  before – no change in feeling or affection and of think? This so
  seldom happens when matrimony comes so ?? young peoples paths ?? and
  new interests Arise you remind me ?? Many things of your mother there
  was a quick perception of character with her as with you and a little
  given to see the ridiculous side of things - with a very bright mind.
  Lola?? has always been a great favorite here her bright & yet
  practical mind her power of strong every

  …Think and helping herself Is very much appreciated Workers – we see
  so many Useless members of society Among the young people That it is
  refreshing to see One who can help herself And others. She is a great
  Favorite with Mrs Robert VK? – she got entirely in her Good graces –
  we are now Just in the midst of a NE storm which we Suppose you are
  enjoying Also. This is the 3rd day of rain with little appearance of
  ceasing it will probably terminate in a North Wester which will strip
  our trees of their gay plumage I think the foliage has been brighter
  since you left – but it most

  …Soon now give place to have ?? – we went yesterday to Hear a Mr
  Danugh? Give A reading of Shakespeare. It was The Merchant of Venice –
  and Was such a wonderful effort He recited that not read – and He had
  a wonderful power of Voice & action in assuming The different
  characters – so In thinking of it now it is Difficult to realize it
  was the Same person ????? that? Character it made me think Of you. I
  thought you would Have enjoyed it – Endure? ??? her love and begs me

  To say that she made every Effort to take care of no little Black cat
  but she suddenly Has appeared. Emma? Thinks it Was because I would not
  Allow her to enjoy the knowledge? Of the parlor? She was a refined

NEXT PAGE sideways

  Can and not like the kitchen Mrs VhK? Sends kind remembrances & says
  tell Lola I hope she is getting Those photos in trim but this is bad
  weather for it -my love So have? Yourself affectionately EVR

E. thanks for the receipts of the ?? & he has not tried it yet

November 10:

My dear miss Alice.

  I have just been writing a long letter to Mrs. Eccleston trying to
  make my peace with her and am impelled to scribble just a few lines to
  you to the effect that though lost to sight, as it were, you are still
  to memory dear. And to sue for forgiveness for my apparent neglect.

  My father has had his eyes operated on for cataract, and while the
  operation was successful, the cure has been very slow, and I have
  remained with him all the time I could find after business hours.
  Hence, my not having been to see you.

  I hope very soon to be at Staten Island again, and you may rest
  assured you will be among the first upon whom I will inflict my
  society. I expect to join the B.S. Club’s Sociables and hope you will
  permit me to be your escort to at least one or two of them.

  In the present outlook, they bid fair to be very pleasant, and I think
  the boys are to be congratulated on their enterprise.

  Mrs. Hazard wrote, asking me to join the Dancing class, but I am not
  yet sure whether I can do so. I am considering it. We old men need
  amusement.

  Jack tells me his and Marie’s engagement is announced. Well, I wish
  them joy. They are a jolly little pair.

  Now, “don't be woozy” and drop me a line saying you are not altogether
  angry with me, and ere long you will see my attenuated form striding
  across your long with outstretched hand and friendly greeting.

And meanwhile, believe me, your sincere friend, Will V Batchelder, 10
Broadway.

Nov 10: letter from Julie B (Box 19B)

  Monday 10—My dearest Alice, Here I am at Bergen, and I will tell you
  just what I have been doing. The day I left you I went up to Uncle's
  first, and he was not down so I went uptown and got a dandy cape.
  Black Sable, just like Russian, only black. I am sure you would like
  it. Ask them to show them when you get yours. I was so undecided
  between it and a black sealskin. Or at least a very dark one. But at
  last, I got it and I hope the family will like it.

  Then I went back to the store & went to dinner with Uncle & feasted on
  Claret until my face was a beaming red - then I got home about 6, had
  dinner & went to riding school with Lella. She went with Mr Wood. With
  Mr Schenck we had a dandy supper afterward and got home about one. I
  was too tired to go out the next day; slept all afternoon and played
  Tiddley-winks in evening -

  Left the next morning early for Plainfield. We got the chief of police
  there to go with us and got absolutely naught. The man said the thief
  lied. The things had not been brought to him. So that ends it.

  Then I came here, and I got a letter from Isa all redirectedly telling
  me to meet her in New York to go to the theater – she had gone. It was
  too late for me to go, so I read and wrote. And Uncle and Aunt came
  here also, so we talked. I was sleepy that night & I was in the soup
  all day yesterday but feel all OK now.

  Have been out driving all morning & two men are coming tonight. We're
  going to play Tiddley-winks tomorrow afternoon – it is all to be
  girls, and Isa is going to ask some of the girls & boys next week to
  play so I’ll have enough of my dear beloved game.

  Well, Alice, I can't tell you what a dandy time I had at your house.
  It was awfully jolly. I did enjoy myself so much. Tell Mr Alexander
  that I said he should look out for me at the Thanksgiving game. If a
  crowd comes from home, I am going to ask to go. Tell all the boys, now
  don't forget – if you do – As I suppose you will see Mr. Robinson
  soon, ask him for me if he keeps his promises, he will understand, &
  tell David Marsh to look out for me Thanksgiving Day. If I am not dead
  broke, I may go to Brooklyn over Thanksgiving Day &, if Mama will let
  me stay until then.

  My trunk got here, but my it was broken, my hat smashed etc. Give my
  best, best love to Mrs Lloyd. I think she is the most perfect little
  wife. Wonder if her husband is not head over ears in love with her.
  And my love to Julia Martin & remember me to everyone. I think Staten
  Island is great. Give my best love to your Momma, Auntie, Uncle &
  yourself and last, but not least your Grandpapa – I think he is so
  cute. We met and talked to quite a number of people I knew. I think it
  is fun. Now, write some dear, and if a whole lot of Brooklyn people
  come for Thanksgiving Day and they get up a party, I'll let you know,
  and you can come also. I fear they won't, but I’ll write & see. Now
  write soon, and give my messages.

  I am wild to show the pictures to the people, so get them finished
  right off, A la Alice Butler – Ever yours, Julie

Nov 15: My dear Lola

  Your Photograph never reached Mrs Wilson when she went to the office
  and enquired for it. It was there but they would not give it without
  an order from you. Mrs Wilson then wrote to you but not knowing your
  address sent it on to me and of? Directed? It & forwarded it to you
  but she says she never received the order from you. This illness of
  her father and his death made her forget all about it but Mrs
  Berncherhoff was on here last Tuesday and mentioned to me that she had
  not heard from you.

  Perhaps you had not received the letter but I thought I would let you
  know and you might send the ?? on & if the post office has not
  disposed of it we all felt that the death of Dr Morton was a release
  to him from such suffering to perfect rest and peace. Mr Parl?? Say
  they cannot wish him back again but it leaves of course a great void
  in their lives – they have been devoted children & now can scarcely
  realize they have no more to do for their dear father. He was of such
  a kind genuine disposition. He attached every one to him all his
  brother clergy were very fond him and came from great distances for
  his funeral & all his former congregation had been devoted to him &
  felt his death

  Very much. He is home a great ?? we have been closely ?? since
  childhood and in all these long years there has never ?? anything to
  weaken the tie between us – and all his children have seemed very near
  to us. You do not know how much your photographs have been admired.
  Everyone things they are uncommon good productions from such a small
  instrument – so perfectly clear. Mr Browne was here in September and
  he thought he could make some very pretty pictures from our present
  surroundings but he had not his instrument with him. I hope you have
  had a pleasant summer the last time your mother wrote she said you
  were visiting a friend and were to be away for some time. I suppose
  all

  The wanderings are over now and you will settle down to your winter
  avocating? And amusements. Among which are you church & society
  worlds. The clothing of the poor always call on our sympathies at this
  season. Emma writes with me in much love to you all Yours
  affectionately

E Van Rensselear

Nov 28: letter from Julie Bredt in Bayonne (letter index)

  Friday night, 28th, 1890.

  My dear Alice, At home again & we are all gathered round the table
  reading and writing occasionally splitting with laughter, at some joke
  gotten off by one of the brilliant Bredts. Mamma has just started
  reading, so excuse mistakes.

  The Webbs did not go to New York so I came home for Thanksgiving day &
  we, Ernestine and I, went to Mr Chapman’s for dinner & we had lots of
  fun. Claire went to NY with her married sisters & Maria. One of the
  boys asked me to go over again with him yesterday & go to the game and
  theatre but I thought I would not, New York has seen enough of me,
  especially as Ernestine wants me to go over with her at Xmas time, & I
  may.

  I saw G. Booth he was very anxious (as usual) to hear how you were.
  You will see him as soon as he goes to NY. I have not seen any of the
  men yet, they have all left for Thanksgiving Day. How is everybody?
  You have not answered my last. I would like you to now you are very
  naughty! Naughty! I met Miss Ranson at Isa’s! I am in love with her;
  she is sweet & her fiancé, I guess I ought to say intended, is a dandy
  also. She had heard of me through that man we met at Miss C’s. - you
  know.

  How is Mr A & B. Robinson – did you ask him that for me? Please do &
  tell that awful Wright I hate him, nearly – darn! darn! darn! him. How
  is my cute little Mrs. Loyd? Give her my bestest and Lollie please
  write a nice long letter to me – I think you are horrid not to.

  How was the Assembly? I thought of you & I know you had a dandy time.
  I have a new song, quite cute & am going to get another soon. Have you
  learned the ones you got yet? & the skirt dance? I broke that string
  of mine last night so am in the soup. And as I am going out tomorrow &
  want to take it, I have to get one in the morning – Unless a man comes
  tonight then I’ll make him – was it not a beat for Yale – how is Sir
  R. Cameron? Tell Mrs Miller I think he is “mighty darned cute.” And
  give my best love to Mrs Miller and remember me to Captain Miller, and
  give my “lovely” look to your Mamma & tell your Grandpapa that I often
  think how he likes this cold weather. I am frozen.

  And keep a little love for yourself & write soon to yours, as ever,
  Julie F Bredt.

All the family want me to give you their best love.

Dec 7: letter from Bessie Strong, NB, NJ,

  My dear Alice, this hour on Sunday morning usually finds me at church,
  but today I am nursing a cold. It has been hanging on so long that I
  am getting desperate and every time I go out I seem to catch more.

  The pictures came safely and are fine. I will enclose the money for
  them. As for the letter, while it was due about two months ago, I
  should not think of answering so soon. Only I shall be so busy from
  now on till after Christmas when I expect to go away.

  When we were joking about our trip West, which we were to take unless
  our prospects brightened, I did not think my turn would come so soon.
  I had hardly gotten home from Brooklyn when Auntie wrote, asking me to
  come to Cincinnati early in November and spend a month. As I could not
  get ready on such short notice, the visit was postponed till after the
  holidays and I have been and am still driven to distraction with
  dressmakers. We have two going at once and one of them never keeps an
  engagement if she can possibly avoid it. But she fits beautifully, so
  there is some compensation.

  My present plan is to leave for Washington soon after Christmas and
  stay there a week or two; and from Washington, to go to Cincinnati.
  And after my visit there is ended, I am booked for three or four weeks
  in Louisville. Do you not enjoy me? I may have to leave Washington
  till the return trip that all depends upon whether my pass can be made
  out as I want it. Helen goes to Chicago about the same time I start,
  and we hoped we could arrange to travel together, but it would be too
  much out of her way. I saw your photographs had gone into the contest,
  which I had time to send more, but it is too cold to take new ones and
  I selected the best of the old. Took two beauty views of Hamilton this
  fall. They are about my best negatives.

  Have you had letters from photographic ”cranks” in the west and south
  asking you to exchange pictures? I have had two such and am still in
  doubt whether or not to comply with the request. Hardly think I shall
  have time though. Tomorrow night our Whist club meets at the Schencks’
  and the following week I hope to have it here. There are only eight
  regular members, and as we are all very find of whist, we are enjoying
  the club immensely. There is absolutely nothing else going on. The
  “Delts” had one dance in October. And the “Zetas” talked of giving
  one, but it seems to have fallen through.

  Many thanks for the little picture of yourself. It is not a perfect
  likeness, but better than any I have. I'm going to send you one I had
  taken while in Brooklyn. Everyone thinks that the best I have had yet.
  Smith certainly finishes his pictures nicely and his prices are very
  low. His poses are good too.

  Tuesday I hope to go over and spend a couple of days with Etta. The
  new flat 165 W 58th St. is lovely. I lunched there a few weeks since
  Etta came out two weeks ago and stayed 2 days with me. All the visit I
  could get from her. Wish you could see my efforts in the millinery
  line. I have retrimmed a little capote [ka-pote], which is quite
  stunning, and am now on a dress bonnet. Think I shall put orchids on
  it. This is a letter and a half, but I had to tell you all about my
  trip. Give my love to your mother with much for yourself. Yours, EBS

December 26:

My dear miss Alice.

  I consider myself fortunate that the season of rest should have been
  devoted to me; the more so because of this depressing time under
  existing circumstances, and to be remembered by one’s friends is
  always pleasant.

  I am glad you went to Mrs. Eccleston's rescue during the day for I
  know she is lovely beyond expression and your presence could not but
  serve to cheer her up. Shall I tell you something in confidence? The
  more your character unfolds to me, the more I find it to reflect and
  esteem in you; for real unselfish kindness of heart is rare in this
  generation, and thoughtfulness for others still more rare.

  I sincerely trust your Christmas proved a merry & pleasant one to you
  and that the coming New Year may hold naught but pleasure and
  happiness for you and yours.

  I thank you very much for your kind wishes for me and I shall hope
  that good luck may, at last, smile on me. Although of late years she
  (?) (I am not sure of its sex) has rather been given to frowning,
  however if it be a she, there is little doubt that she will smile when
  I least care.

  I was greatly disappointed at not to remain at the assembly, but a
  frightful sick headache made it impossible. If I can arrange to attend
  the next one, it will give me great pleasure to accompany your party,
  and I thank you for your kindness in suggesting it.

  I hope to visit the island very soon and shall certainly inflict my
  society on you while there.

  With kind regards, believe me, your sincere friend, Will V Batchelder

Dec 27: New Brunswick (Box 19B)

  My dear Alice, your letter came this morning and caused my conscience
  a twinge that I had not sooner acknowledged your remembrance of
  Christmas. But if you only knew how busy I am, you would not think
  it's strange I am getting my notes of things written off as fast as
  possible under the circumstances. Thank you so much for the picture as
  well as for the dainty frame. We all like the photograph very much.
  There is something a trifle unnatural about the mouth, but aside from
  that it is capital. You have not expressed your opinion of my picture
  as yet.

  I wish we could meet before I leave, but as that will be at 8:20
  Monday morning, I do not see how we can arrange it. I go to Elizabeth
  to take the Baltimore and Ohio Rd from there to Washington. My pass is
  all being over that Rd. Expect to be in Washington for a week or so
  and then go straight to Cincinnati and later on, from there to
  Louisville.

  Do write to me like a good girl for you have really treated me
  shamefully lately. When I get back I shall want a visit from you.

  I had a quantity of Christmas presents, most of them useful. Counted
  up 18 last night, but the effort was too much and I stopped. I asked
  the family to give me clothes, so mothers present was a lovely dark
  red India silk evening dress, and the boys gave me a long evening
  cloak. Another thing I had given me was a silver letter opener in the
  shape of a leaf. A beautiful little thing. Etta sent me a large
  portfolio of Russia leather. But I have not time to tell if anymore.
  Today I have to make a muff, cut out a dressing sacque, and do a
  hundred and one little things, the thought of which is enough to make
  me crazy.

  Wish you could see my three hats. I have trimmed my evening bonnet,
  black velvet with gold trimmings; and pink orchids is a thing to be
  proud of. Probably you are enjoying this snow. I walked to town in all
  the storm yesterday, and I had a caller last night. Brave man!

  I have no idea you will write to me within the next week, but my
  Washington address will be: Care, Mrs Bartlett 923 Rhode Island Ave.
  In Cincinnati, the address is Care, Edward W Strong, Esquire, 40
  Albion Place, Mount Auburn, Cincinnati, Ohio. Long enough, is it not?
  Give my love to your Mother and Aunt & regards to the gentlemen. A
  happy New Year to you all. With much love for yourself, in which
  mother joins. Believe me always affectionately, Elisabeth. PS I am
  having a very interesting correspondence with my photographic friends
  South and West. Am expecting the Florida views anytime but the man is
  content to wait until March for mine.

Dec 29: letter from E Van Rensselaer, My dear Lollie, (finding aid ref
photo)

  The Cottage, Dec 29, My dear Lollie – Thank you for your Christmas
  Card but especially for your Photograph. We are so much pleased with
  it and think it such a good likeness – it will take its place in our
  Photograph gallery amongst our most appreciated young friends – We did
  not need it to recall you to us for we have so much of your own
  skilfull works about us that you are often spoken of – but we like to
  have the artist herself also – I hope you have had a pleasant
  Christmas – the …

  … day was lovely here bright and not too cold with the sleighing since
  then. We have had another snow storm but so deep as to ensure the
  sleighing the first fall of snow was sleet also went to make a regular
  ice foundation so that the sleigh slipped along with the greatest ease
  and the horses scarcely seemed to realize they had any weight behind
  them – but I do not think you had that storm – it was rain in New York
  – but this one seems to have been very universal over all the country.
  We are having more snow today – so it looks as if we are…

  … to pay up for our two mild winters. I hope at any rate we will have
  plenty of ice next summer. I was so sorry you were obliged to present
  those photo – 3 of Mrs Wilson’s over again. It ?? seems so stupid at
  the Post Office not to give them to her when she applied they had been
  so long on Philadelphia just in the same place of should have supposed
  they would have inown where to send them without her applying for
  them. Sometimes they seem very smart at the post offices and then
  again very stupid. Give my love to your mother and wish …

  … her a happy New Year for me & thank her for her last letter which I
  shall now answer. Emma writes with me in much love to you all and
  wishing you all a very Happy New Years.

Yours affectionately, E. VanRensselaer.